Seattle’s Child is proud to partner with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families Strengthening Families Washington to honor outstanding caregivers doing important work on behalf of children. Throughout February, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state: biological parents, grandparents, foster and adoptive parents. Some volunteer at local schools; some have started nonprofits; some mentor others in their communities. Enjoy the stories of 2025’s unsung heroes.
Noriko Kim, Mill Creek
Noriko is definitely an Unsung Hero of our community.
During the pandemic, Noriko organized small outdoor get-togethers so her son and other children (same school age as her son and siblings) could still find a way to have social connections, the parents as well.
She ensured that there was plenty of food and activities to do at her once-a-week gatherings. Her “play dates,” as she lovingly refers to them, transitioned from the all-age larger group to more grade-specific starting last year in seventh grade and then her epic parties. Halloween, and beginning and end of school include everyone: siblings and other friends.
It has grown from a handful to 30-plus children coming to her house. She is viewed as a second mother, trusted confidante and always has the best interest of the children in mind. When she volunteers at the school, she is always swarmed by the kids who have come to her parties or have had interacted with her, wanting to say hi and sharing tidbits from their lives.
She is an example of creating a safe place, standing up for what is right, encouraging dialogue surrounding difficult topics and calling attention to situations that are not OK. I don’t think Noriko has any idea the community connectedness and sense of belonging she created over the last four years not only for these kids but for the parents as well. She has touched the hearts of so many individuals when she created these get-togethers.
— Margaret McAdams
NOTE: Seattle’s Child is running these stories unedited, as written by the people who nominated them, in keeping with the DCYF Unsung Hero process.
More Unsung Heroes:
Olivia McGuire: A ‘powerhouse of love’
Dad’s remarkable journey of recovery
